EB3 Match

EB-3 processing times

These are the stages from start to green card. Times change; official sources have the latest figures.

  1. Prevailing wage (PWD)

    Several months (see DOL)

    DOL sets the minimum wage for the job in that area.

  2. Local recruitment

    Required ad and waiting periods usually total 2–3 months

    The job is advertised through newspapers, the state workforce agency and other channels to test for qualified U.S. workers.

  3. PERM review

    About 10–11 months (to be verified)

    DOL reviews the ETA-9089.

  4. I-140

    Months to a year regular; 15 business days premium

    USCIS reviews the petition and the employer’s ability to pay.

  5. Visa bulletin wait

    Depends on country and category; see the bulletin page

    No green card until your priority date is current.

  6. Adjustment of status or consular interview

    Adjustment usually 6–12 months; consular processing usually 4–8 months

    The final step once your date is current.

In total: for Other Workers from most countries, start to green card currently takes about four to five years, and longer for China-born applicants. Professionals and skilled workers wait less.

As of November 2026 (to be verified)

Official sources: DOL processing times, USCIS processing times, Visa Bulletin